Computer Based Information Management for Professionals Serving Handicapped Learners
The increased trend toward individualization of instruction, recent federal legislation requiring IEP planning, and the information explosion have promoted a greater interest in the use of computer based technologies for educational program development. This article discusses the basic design of Ohio's HELPS computer based information management system, the technical and nontechnical factors that were taken into consideration in its development, and the major results of its field testing in special education settings. Generic issues relating to the use of computer based information management systems for designing individualized education programs for handicapped and nonhandicapped learners are elaborated. Conclusions drawn from the development of Ohio's HELPS system are discussed in terms of implications for future research and development efforts.